Biz or First Class Coast to Coast?
September 10, 2008 on 10:54 am | In Airline Service | 1 CommentGiven the semi-success of the all business class airlines that formed around flying from NYC to London, I’ve wondered if there wouldn’t be a demand for such service between Los Angeles and NYC. Frankly, I wonder if an all First Class service between those two cities wouldn’t be in demand.
I could see an airline such as American Airlines or Delta Airlines or United Airlines fitting out a 737-800 or A320 with their international business class or first class product and offer a customized service from the curb to the airplane as well. If one flew from LAX to EWR, it would be as convenient as convenient gets and serve industries such as the entertainment business with near private jet service.
The airlines would simply need 2 or 3 dedicated aircraft refitted and could draw upon senior staff for such flights. With lie flat seating, the airline could offer both morning and evening departures from each city and by flying into EWR, put their customers close to Manhattan. They likely could charge a small premium (10 to 20%) over their existing product just to allow people to avoid flying with the masses and the associated delays that come with more people on one airplane.
That is the one city pair that could support such service. I do believe it could have potential for profitability but I also believe it would raise the profile of the airline as well.
